Some of the cloud confusion that I previously discussed must be subsiding because even though only 7% of small businesses were using cloud computing services as of April 2010, that number is expected to exceed 10% by mid 2011 according to technology research firm IDC. Either that or more small businesses feel they need to jump on the cloud computing band wagon. As I have also discussed in previous posts, the reason for the increased use of cloud computing services is its affordability and flexibility. And finally, we all know the importance of investigating a cloud computing service provider before signing that contract.

Nevertheless, despite our good intentions, mistakes in selecting a cloud computing provider will happen. Therefore, another question a customer of cloud computing services must ask itself is how easy will it be for me to transfer to another cloud computing vendor. Unfortunately, the answer may be that it is not easy.